For 30 years NASHOS formed an important back-up for the defence of Australia and their commitment should not be forgotten, National Servicemen’s Association Ballarat sub-branch secretary Ron Douglas said.
The men, whose motto was service to the nation, were conscripted to the military during the 1950s at the young age of 18.
“Nearly 300,000 servicemen were trained over that period,” Mr Douglas said.
“It is important to remember their commitment.”
On Sunday ex-servicemen organisations including the Ballarat and Bacchus Marsh RSLs and Ballarat mayor Mark Harris, among others, gathered to celebrate the fourth anniversary of the memorial erected in the memory of the NASHOS.
Mr Douglas said the memorial in Sturt Street was an important reminder of the role the young men played in Australia’s defence.
“About 12 wreaths were laid,” he said.
“The 300 Army Cadet Unit and 425 Squadron Air Force Cadets were the flag party and the catafalque party.
“They stood on to their posts despite the pouring rain.
“They were marvellous.”
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